U.S. patent application number 11/638794 was filed with the patent office on 2007-05-10 for automotive vehicle open air system.
Invention is credited to Cliff R. Reitzloff, Michael J. Urban.
Application Number | 20070102967 11/638794 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 35479886 |
Filed Date | 2007-05-10 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070102967 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Reitzloff; Cliff R. ; et
al. |
May 10, 2007 |
Automotive vehicle open air system
Abstract
In accordance with the present teachings, an automotive vehicle
open air system includes a pair of tracks connected to the vehicle,
a flexible roof that is coupled to the tracks, one or more movement
mechanisms that are integrated in the tracks and connected to the
roof, an automatic actuator and a rear header that is connected to
the roof and is movable with the roof. Other aspects of the
teachings, the rear header may include a stop light that is mounted
in the header or it may include a rear windshield wiper system.
Inventors: |
Reitzloff; Cliff R.;
(Northville, MI) ; Urban; Michael J.; (Windsor,
CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
HARNESS, DICKEY & PIERCE, P.L.C.
P.O. BOX 828
BLOOMFIELD HILLS
MI
48303
US
|
Family ID: |
35479886 |
Appl. No.: |
11/638794 |
Filed: |
December 14, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
11154456 |
Jun 16, 2005 |
7163260 |
|
|
11638794 |
Dec 14, 2006 |
|
|
|
60580584 |
Jun 17, 2004 |
|
|
|
60642378 |
Jan 7, 2005 |
|
|
|
60676605 |
Apr 29, 2005 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
296/219 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B60J 1/183 20130101;
B60J 1/1861 20130101; B60J 7/022 20130101; B60J 1/14 20130101; B60J
7/1291 20130101; B60J 7/061 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
296/219 |
International
Class: |
B60J 7/00 20060101
B60J007/00 |
Claims
1. An automotive vehicle roof system comprising: at least four
drive cables; a guide comprising at least four channels, wherein at
least one of the channels is in a different plane than at least a
second of the channels; a corner piece connected to the guide and a
section of the corner piece operably aligning the drive cables
substantially into one plane; and at least one drive channel member
operably connected to the corner piece and comprising four channels
for the four cable drives, wherein all of the four channels are
aligned in one plane.
2. The automotive vehicle roof system according to claim 1 further
comprising a plurality of lift mechanisms operably moveable in the
guide.
3. The automotive vehicle roof system according to claim 2, wherein
each of the lift mechanisms further comprises a slider operably
moveable in the guide and operably attached to at least one of the
four drive cables.
4. The automotive vehicle roof system according to claim 1 further
comprising a flexible roof that is coupled to the guide.
5. The automotive vehicle roof system according to claim 4 further
comprising at least one movement mechanism that is coupled in the
guide and connected to the flexible roof.
6. The automotive vehicle roof system according to claim 1 further
comprising four corner pieces and two drive channel members.
7. The automotive vehicle roof system according to claim 1 further
comprising at least one motor operably driving the four drive
cables.
8. The automotive vehicle roof system according to claim 1, wherein
the corner piece further comprises a depression for locking an end
bow.
9. The automotive vehicle roof system according to claim 1, wherein
the corner piece is molded.
10. The automotive vehicle roof system according to claim 1 further
comprising at least two cross vehicle roof bows spanning across a
sunroof opening and movable in response to movement of at least one
of the cables.
11. An automotive vehicle roof system comprising: a flexible
sunroof having a front edge rearwardly openable and a rear edge
forwardly openable; a track elongated in a substantially
fore-and-aft direction; drive cables operable to move the flexible
sunroof; and a member attached to the track and changing the
alignment of at least a pair of the drive cables from a
side-by-side orientation to an over-under orientation.
12. The automotive vehicle system according to claim 11, wherein
the member is a corner piece.
13. The automotive vehicle system according to claim 11, wherein
the drive cables are in the over-under orientation in a
substantially cross-vehicle direction.
14. The automotive vehicle system according to claim 11, wherein
there are four of the drive cables.
15. The automotive vehicle system according to claim 11 further
comprising a slider operably moving along the track in response to
movement of at least one of the drive cables, and a cross bow
supporting the flexible sunroof and being coupled to the
slider.
16. The automotive vehicle system according to claim 11 further
comprising a moveable end bow coupled to the flexible sunroof, and
the member includes a locking structure for temporarily securing
the end bow.
17. The automotive vehicle system according to claim 11, wherein
the member changes the alignment of the drive cables from four
cables located side-by-side within the track to two pairs of
vertically oriented cables, with the pairs being spaced apart from
each other.
18. An automotive vehicle roof system comprising: a flexible roof
moveable from a closed position to at least one open position; a
track elongated in a substantially fore-and-aft direction, at least
a majority of the track being located on at least one substantially
horizontal plane; drive cables; a corner piece attached to the
track, the corner piece realigning the drive cables from a
substantially side-by-side spaced apart orientation within the
track to at least two groupings of substantially vertical
orientations of the cables.
19. The automotive vehicle roof system according to claim 18,
wherein the flexible roof is a sunroof having a front edge
rearwardly openable and a rear edge forwardly openable.
20. The automotive vehicle roof system according to claim 18
further comprising: an elongated front header component
stationarily attached to the corner piece; a rear corner piece
coupled to the track; an elongated rear header component
stationarily attached to the rear corner piece; and an
electromagnetic device coupled to one of the header components and
operably driving at least one of the cables.
21. The automotive vehicle roof system according to claim 18
further comprising a slider operably moving along the track in
response to movement of at least one of the drive cables, and a
cross bow supporting the flexible sunroof and being coupled to the
slider.
22. The automotive vehicle roof system according to claim 18
further comprising an end bow coupled to the flexible roof, and the
corner piece including a locking structure temporarily securing the
end bow.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a divisional application of U.S.
application Ser. No. 11/154,456, filed on Jun. 16, 2005 which
claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No.
60/580,584, filed on Jun. 17, 2004; U.S. Provisional Application
Ser. No. 60/642,378, filed on Jan. 7, 2005; and U.S. Provisional
Application Ser. No. 60/676,605, filed on Apr. 29, 2005; all of the
above applications are incorporated herein by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention generally relates to automotive
vehicles and, more particularly, to a moveable flexible roof for
use in an automotive vehicle.
BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY
[0003] It is known to employ flexible roof covers for automotive
vehicles. For example, a flexible roof cover can be retracted by
winding it around a spring loaded roller. Such designs are
disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 1,245,278 to Sherman issued Nov. 6,
1917; U.S. Pat. No. 1,738,060 to Barnes issued Dec. 3, 1929; U.S.
Pat. No. 1,910,075 to Westad issued May 23, 1933; U.S. Pat. No.
3,298,731 to Sangimino issued Jan. 17, 1967; and U.S. Pat. No.
3,658,378 to Sutren issued Apr. 25, 1972. More recent variations of
single and flexible sunroof covers are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.
4,893,868 to Miller et al. issued Jan. 16, 1990; U.S. Pat. No.
5,018,783 to Chaming et al. issued May 28, 1991; U.S. Pat. No.
5,152,577 to Omoto et al. issued Oct. 6, 1992; U.S. Pat. No.
5,944,378 to Mather et al. issued Aug. 31, 1999; U.S. Pat. No.
6,322,137 to Munsters issued Nov. 27, 2001; U.S. Patent Application
Publication No. 2004/0017097 to Albert et al. published Jan. 29,
2004; and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2004/0135404 to
Nellen et al. published Jul. 15, 2004.
[0004] Various attempts have also been made to allow vertical and
rear accessibility to a storage compartment in an otherwise
enclosed vehicle. Such designs are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.
6,478,368 to de Gaillard issued Nov. 12, 2002; U.S. Pat. No.
6,485,094 to Corder et al. issued Nov. 26, 2002; and U.S. Pat. No.
6,860,549 to Engelgau issued Mar. 1, 2005. Although the above
patents solve some of the problems in the art, they are limited in
the application for the class of automotive vehicle known as sport
utility vehicles (SUV).
[0005] In accordance with the present invention, various
embodiments include an automotive vehicle open air system including
at least one track connected to a vehicle, a flexible roof that is
coupled to the track, and one or more movement mechanisms coupling
the roof to the track. In another aspect of the present invention,
an automatic actuator and a rear header that is connected to and is
movable with the roof are provided. Another aspect of the present
invention employs a rear header that includes a stop light and/or a
rear window wiper system. In some embodiments of the present
invention, a track may include a power strip and a header may
include an electrical connection to the power strip so that
electric features such as a stop lamp or interior reading lamp may
be powered in any position of the roof. In certain embodiments of
the invention, a moveable roof covers an opening that encompasses
essentially the entire passenger and cargo compartments of an
automotive vehicle. In a further embodiment of the present
invention, an open air system for an automotive vehicle includes a
flexible roof member, a plurality of cross bows supporting the
roof, a pair of channels which are substantially parallel and
located on each side of the vehicle, at least one movement
mechanism, an actuator, electronic control unit which controls the
actuator and the movement mechanism, and a rear header that is
attached to and moveable with the roof.
[0006] In various embodiments, an automotive vehicle roof employs
two end bows, each having two molded corners connected to a first
extruded piece and a second extruded piece which is connected below
the first extruded piece, cross bows, fabric fastened between the
first and second pieces of the two end bows, and/or seams in the
fabric which provide pockets in the fabric that connect the cross
bows to the fabric. An additional embodiment of the present
invention includes a lifting mechanism for a soft top roof. A
further aspect of the present invention uses a slider element that
is moveable on a guide track attached to a vehicle, an arm
connected to the slider at a pivot point and is moveable from a
neutral to a lift position, a biasing member that can hold the arm
in a neutral position and/or at least two cross bow connectors
located on the arm above the pivot point. In still other
embodiments, the present invention includes an open air system for
an automotive vehicle including a vehicle roof with an aperture and
a step, fore and aft extending side rails, tracks connected to a
vehicle frame, a flexible roof coupled to the tracks, a movement
mechanism coupling the tracks to the roof, a drive mechanism to
move the roof between a closed position and a plurality of open
positions, and a lift mechanism that is shaped to fit in the step
when the roof is in a closed position operably holding the roof
taut over the entirety of the aperture.
[0007] The automotive vehicle open air system of the present
invention is advantageous over conventional devices in that it is
aesthetically pleasing, refined, quick to operate and allows the
conversion of a vehicle into an open air off-road type vehicle.
Other advantageous of the present invention include the ease of use
when opening the roof, especially when hauling cargo that may be
taller than the interior of the vehicle. Additional advantages and
features of the present invention will become apparent from the
following description and appended claims taken in conjunction with
the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] The present invention will become more fully understood from
the detailed description and the accompanying drawings,
wherein:
[0009] FIG. 1 is a rear perspective view showing a first preferred
embodiment of an automotive vehicle open air system of the present
invention with the roof in a closed position.
[0010] FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of a first preferred
embodiment of the present invention with the roof open from the
rear showing the movement of the attached rear header.
[0011] FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view showing a first preferred
embodiment of the present invention with the roof in an open
position from the front.
[0012] FIG. 4 is a rear perspective view showing a first preferred
embodiment of the present invention with the roof open with
movement from the front and from the rear header.
[0013] FIG. 5 is a representation of a control system controlling
the open air system, shown in a closed position.
[0014] FIG. 6 is a representation of a control system controlling
the open air system, shown open from the front and the rear.
[0015] FIG. 7 is a representation of a control system controlling
the open air system, shown open from the rear.
[0016] FIG. 8 is a representation of a control system controlling
the open air system, shown open from the front.
[0017] FIG. 9 is an exploded front perspective view showing the
complete subassembly of the open air system of the present
invention.
[0018] FIG. 10 is a cross sectional view taken along line 10-10 of
FIG. 9 showing the preferred embodiment of open air system.
[0019] FIGS. 11A-11D are diagrammatic views of a first and a second
alternate embodiment of the present invention showing a rear
tailgate and a retractable rear header.
[0020] FIG. 12 is a fragmentary, diagrammatic view showing a rear
header track employed in the first and the second alternative
embodiments of the present invention.
[0021] FIG. 13 is a front perspective view showing a completed
subassembly of a third alternative embodiment of an open air system
attached to a vehicle.
[0022] FIG. 14 is a partially exploded front perspective view
showing the completed subassembly of a third alternative embodiment
of an open air system.
[0023] FIG. 15 is a cross sectional view taken along line 15-15 of
FIG. 13 showing the third alternative preferred embodiment of an
open air system.
[0024] FIG. 16 is a rear perspective view showing a preferred
embodiment of an open air system in a fully closed position.
[0025] FIG. 17 is a rear perspective view of the second preferred
embodiment showing the open air system opening from the front.
[0026] FIG. 18 is a rear perspective view of the second preferred
embodiment showing the open air system opening from the rear.
[0027] FIG. 19 is a rear perspective view of the second preferred
embodiment showing the open air system opening from the front and
the rear.
[0028] FIG. 20 is a cross sectional view taken along line 20-20 of
FIG. 16 showing the third preferred embodiment of an open air
system.
[0029] FIGS. 21A-21B are cross sectional views taken along line
21-21 of FIG. 16 at a roof bow area.
[0030] FIG. 22 is a cross sectional view taken along line 22-22 of
FIG. 16 showing the second preferred embodiment of the open air
system.
[0031] FIG. 23 is a cross sectional view taken along line 23-23 of
FIG. 16 showing the second preferred embodiment of the open air
system.
[0032] FIG. 24 is a cross sectional view taken along line 24-24 of
FIG. 16 showing the second preferred embodiment of the open air
system.
[0033] FIG. 25 is a detailed perspective view of FIG. 18 showing
water management system.
[0034] FIG. 26 is an exploded perspective view of an alternate
embodiment of bow and plate assembly.
[0035] FIG. 27 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a
wind deflector.
[0036] FIG. 28 is a side view of a first alternative embodiment of
a wind deflector.
[0037] FIG. 29 is a perspective view of a second alternative
embodiment of a wind deflector.
[0038] FIG. 30 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of
corner piece.
[0039] FIG. 31 is a perspective view of preferred embodiment of a
corner piece illustrating drive cables inside the corner piece.
[0040] FIG. 32 is a perspective view of the drive cables and
tracks.
[0041] FIG. 33 is a side view of a preferred embodiment of a lift
mechanism.
[0042] FIG. 34 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a
lift mechanism.
[0043] FIG. 35 is a side view and forward view of an alternative
embodiment of slide piece.
[0044] FIG. 36 is a side view and top view of an alternative
embodiment of lift arm.
[0045] FIG. 37 is a side view of a second preferred embodiment of
lift mechanism.
[0046] FIG. 38 is a front perspective view of a third preferred
embodiment of the present invention with the roof open from the
front.
[0047] FIG. 39 is a side view of a third preferred embodiment of a
lift arm mechanism.
[0048] FIG. 40 is another side view of a third preferred embodiment
of a lift arm mechanism.
[0049] FIG. 41 is a perspective view of a third preferred
embodiment of a lift arm mechanism.
[0050] FIG. 42 is a cross sectional view of FIG. 37 along line
42-42 showing preferred embodiment on end bow.
[0051] FIG. 43 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of
end bow cap.
[0052] FIG. 44 is a fragmentary rear perspective view of preferred
embodiment of removable window.
[0053] FIG. 45 is a fragmentary rear view showing removal of
preferred embodiment of removable window.
[0054] FIG. 46 is a side view of a preferred embodiment of
fastening system of removable window shown in an open position.
[0055] FIG. 47 is a side view of a preferred embodiment of
fastening system of removable window in a closed position.
[0056] FIG. 48 is a top view of preferred embodiment of fastener
system of removable window.
[0057] FIG. 49 is a perspective view of the fourth preferred
embodiment of the lift arm mechanism.
[0058] FIG. 50 is an enlarged and exploded perspective view from
the rear showing the complete subassembly of a second preferred
embodiment of open air system of the present invention.
[0059] FIG. 51 is a cross sectional view of FIG. 50 along line
51-51 of subassembly showing end bow area.
[0060] FIG. 52 is side view of a third alternative wind deflector
in a closed position.
[0061] FIG. 53 is a side view of a third alternative wind deflector
in an open position.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0062] The following description of the preferred embodiments is
merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the
invention, its application, or uses. The present invention provides
devices and methods related to open air roof systems for automotive
vehicles. The following definitions and non-limiting guidelines
must be considered in reviewing the description of this invention
set forth herein.
[0063] Referring to FIGS. 1-4, an automotive vehicle 121 has a
first preferred embodiment of an open air system 100 of the present
invention which includes a flexible and movable surface 110 which
is spanned between a pair of parallel tracks 101, 102 and has a
rear header 103 attached to the movable and flexible surface 110.
In various embodiments, rear header 103 includes a stop light 105.
In various embodiments, rear header 103 includes a rear windshield
wiper 107 that may comprise a powered motor 108. In some
embodiments of the present invention, tracks 101, 102 may include a
power strip and header 103 may include an electrical connection to
the power strip so that an electric feature such as stop lamp 105
may be powered in any open position of roof 110. Header 103 is
essentially hollow and may be fabricated from metal, plastic,
carbon fiber and combinations thereof. FIG. 1 illustrates open air
system 100 in a closed position in which the entire interior of
automotive vehicle 121 is protected from the outside elements. FIG.
2 shows open air system 100 open from the rear with rear window 109
retracted into tailgate 111. In this position, roof 110 is moved
from the closed position to a forward position by an electrical
powered means. Such electrically controlled movement of a flexible
roof includes an actuator which may control cables, belt drive, a
screw drive, a Bowden drive or other drive devices. See, for
example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,152,577 to Omoto et al. issued Oct. 6,
1992; U.S. Pat. No. 6,161,893 to Ewing et al. issued Dec. 19, 2000;
and U.S. Pat. No. 5,169,206 to Omoto et al. issued Dec. 8, 1992;
U.S. Pat. No. 4,085,965 to Schlapp issued Apr. 25, 1979; U.S. Pat.
No. 4,671,565 to Grimm et al. issued Jun. 9, 1987; and U.S. Pat.
No. 5,015,030 to Detloff issued May 14, 1991; and U.S. Pat. No.
5,018,783 to Chaming et al. issued May 28, 1991. FIG. 3 shows the
open air roof system 100 opened from the forward position, thus
exposing the driver and passenger to the open air. FIG. 4 shows the
open air system 100 moved from both the forward position and rear
position exposing both the cargo and the passenger areas to open
air.
[0064] Referring to FIGS. 5-8, automotive vehicle 121 has open air
system 100. Movement of open air system 100 is controlled by
controller 180. Controller 180 includes a knob or other finger
controller member 185, 186 which moves along line 184. Finger
controllable member 185 moves the forward portion of open air
system 100 while finger control member 186 controls the movement of
the rear of open air system 100. Controller 180 may include memory
buttons 181, 182 used to store favorite roof opening configurations
in a memory and retrievable by pushing one of the memory buttons
181, 182. For example, memory button 181 may be programmed to have
the roof opened from the front only, as shown in FIG. 8, while
memory button 182 may be programmed to have the open air roof
system 100 open from both the front and the rear, as shown in FIG.
6. By just pressing button 181, the roof goes into a configuration
like FIG. 8 or by just pressing button 182, the roof goes into a
configuration like FIG. 6. Controller 180 is designed to be
intuitive so that movement of finger controlled members 185, 186
along line 184 is consistent with the opening of the roof. As shown
in FIG. 5, front finger controlled member 185 is at one extreme of
line 184 while other rear finger controlled member 186 is at the
opposite extreme end of line 184 and controller 180 has the open
air system 100 completely closed. Moving to FIG. 6, finger
controlled members 185, 186 are both moved to the center of line
184 and, as shown, open air roof system 100 is open from both front
and rear. FIG. 7 shows front finger control member 185 all the way
at the extreme end of line 184 while rear finger control member 186
is moved toward front finger control member 185, thus controlling
open air system 100 to open from the rear toward the front.
Conversely, shown in FIG. 8, finger control member 185 is moved
toward the rear finger control member at one end of line 184, and
in such a configuration, open air roof system 100 is opened from
the front of the vehicle toward the rear. These are just four
examples on infinite other intermediate roof positions. Finger
control members 185, 186 may be moved in an infinite number of
positions. Controller 180 is a part of a programmable electronic
control unit 216 (hereinafter "ECU"). Controller 180 may be part of
subassembly 200. Controller 180 may be part of a subassembly in
which the rear header is fixed. Controller 180 may be installed in
a panel, dashboard, center console, overhead console, or any other
location that may be convenient for the driver to access the
controller 180. Although these figures show the use of controller
180 with an open air system with a moveable rear header, controller
180 is easily adaptable to an open air system similar having a
fixed rear header. Controller 180 may control movements of such a
roof, as shown in FIGS. 15-18.
[0065] FIGS. 9, 10, 13, 14 and 15 illustrates an open air system
100 of the present invention including a flexible and movable
surface 220. Open air system 100 may be part of an automotive
vehicle 121. Open air system 100 includes roof rack 211 and may
additionally comprise air deflector 212 which may include
lights.
[0066] FIG. 9 shows a fragmentary view of a first preferred
embodiment of subassembly 200 comprising open air system 100 of the
present invention. Open air roof system 100 may comprise subsystem
200 comprising a roof panel 220 which may comprise a top cover 203,
cross bows 202 and lift mechanisms 204 that fit into the track 207.
Roof panel 220 includes padding 205 and a roof headliner 206. Roof
panel components such as, for example, top cover 203, cross bows
207, lift mechanisms 204, padding 205 and roof headliner 206 is
manufactured as a unit (roof panel 220). Roof panel 220 moves and
folds along track 207. Track 207 may further include
weatherstripping to prevent moisture and air from coming into the
vehicle. Connected to roof panel 220 is a retractable rear header
210 and retractable rear header 210 includes trim piece 208. Rear
header 210 moves with the roof panel 220. A rear stop light may be
included in the retractable rear header 210. A wiper system may be
included in retractable rear header 210. Roof rack 211 which may
include stanchions which may further comprise cross car members and
roof rack 211 may be connected to track 207. An air deflector 212
is connected to the track 207 as part of subassembly 200. Air
deflector 212 includes lights. The movement of roof panel 220 is
controlled by an electronic control unit (ECU) 216 and the ECU is
part of the subassembly. ECU 216 controls the open air system 100
in all the open and closed positions as described above and in
FIGS. 1-8. Subassembly 200 includes a movement mechanism for roof
panel 202 along track 207. Examples of a movement mechanism may
include but is not limited to generally rigid rods, pulley-type
cables and Bowden cables. Gears of the motor directly contact a
rack-like track, or a jack screw, tape drive or hydraulic
mechanism. A movement mechanism includes two motors and four drive
cables. In such embodiments, each motor is connected to two drive
cables. In certain embodiments, the two motors are controlled by an
ECU 216. A controller similar to controller 180 is utilized by an
occupant of vehicle 121 to control the operation of the two motors
and drive cables, thus controlling the opening and closing of roof
panel 202. Subassembly 200 comprises an interior headliner 209
which is attached from inside vehicle 121. Additional parts or
components are integrated into interior headliner 209 which is part
of subassembly 200 such as, for example, a substrate 213 to connect
other components, a forward light housing or reading/dome light
215, sun visors 214, handles 219 and/or a side light substrate 217
and light fixture 218. ECU 216 may include, for example, a compass,
a thermometer, a travel computer, a GPS device, a Bluetooth
interface, a cell phone device, an occupant satellite communication
system, such as, for example, OnStar.RTM., and/or a display device
or screen. A DVD or other entertainment system may be integrated
into the headliner. Integrating such components into a headliner is
disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,844,533 to Dowd, which issued Jul. 4,
1989 and is incorporated by reference herein.
[0067] Referring to FIG. 10, a cross sectional view of FIG. 9 shows
fastening member 232 inserted into hole 230 which has a flange that
is part of frame 236. Fastening member 232 is then held in place
using a standard fastener 234 such as a bolt, locking fastener,
clip or the like. Subassembly 200 is put onto frame rail 236 during
assembly and fastening member 232 and fastener 234 are replaced by
a screw or the like which is fastened from the inside of the
vehicle through hole 230 into rail 207. A side impact airbag 240
may be included. Side impact airbag 240 may include a motion sensor
241 so that airbag 240 is released if the vehicle 121 rolls over.
Also shown in this cross sectional view is a seal 245 which seals
open air system and vehicle interior from outside elements such as
wind, moisture, rain, snow, dirt and the like. Additional trim
and/or seals 246 may be necessary so that frame rail is sealed and
has a finished and aesthetically pleasing look. Fastening member
232 may be a locator pin and fastener 234 may not be needed in such
embodiments. Rather, subassembly 200 may be attached to vehicle 121
by using adhesive along the surface interface between tracks 207
and vehicle frame rail 236.
[0068] Referring to FIGS. 11A, 11B, 11C, and 11D, a first and
second alternate embodiment of the present invention are shown.
Automotive vehicle 300 has a flexible, movable roof 301 which is
moved by electronic and/or mechanical systems such as described
herein. Movable roof 301 butts up to rear header 303 and has a
weatherstrip seal 306 to deter moisture and other elements that are
not wanted in the interior of the vehicle. Rear header 303 includes
a rear stop light 304. In a first alternative embodiment, rear
header 303 may include a rear wiper system (not shown). To supply
power to an electrical component in rear header 303, such as, for
example, the rear stop light 304 and/or to a rear windshield wiper
system, there is an electrical connection 305 which connects to a
power strip in the track 314 in which the header 303 moves. As
shown in FIG. 12, track 314 has a power strip 325 that is in
contact with electrical connector 305. Power strip 325 may be
connected to power supply 321 by pigtail 320. There is a mirror
image of track 314 on the opposite side of the vehicle 300. The
rear window 311 moves up and down in track 312 that is located in
tailgate 308 and is moved by motor 309 or may be moved by a hand
crank. A weatherstripping system 313 seals the inside of tailgate
308 from the outside elements. Tailgate 308 pivots on hinge 310
which is above the bumper 315. The tailgate is similar to a typical
pickup truck tailgate. FIG. 11B shows the embodiments of FIG. 11A
with the window 311 retracted into tailgate 308. In embodiments
shown in FIG. 11C, the rear header 303 moves along track 314 into a
recessed position 303A above the tailgate 308. In a second
alternative embodiment similar to above, rear header 303 is
replaced with a different header 350 which comprises roller 351
that attaches to flexible roof 352 and flexible roof 352 may be
retracted into rear header 350 on roller 351. Roller 351 may be
electrically controlled and may have an actuator connected to it.
Rear header 350 and glass 353 can move similarly to rear header
303/303A that was described earlier. Other open air systems are
described in U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/580,583 to Storc
et al., filed on Jun. 17, 2004 and U.S. Application No. ______
(Attorney Docket No. 5362-000518) to Storc et al., entitled
"Automotive Vehicle Open Air System", which was filed on Jun. 16,
2005, all of which are incorporated in their entirety.
[0069] With reference to FIGS. 13 and 14, the present invention
include methods of manufacture of an open air system to a vehicle.
An example of such manufacturing methods includes attaching
subassembly 200 to vehicle 121. Attachment points 232 are
illustrated and in some embodiments they may be locator pins and
subassembly 200 may be bonded to vehicle 121 by any adhesive known
to be strong enough for such application. Alternatively, attachment
points 232 may include any fastener known in the art such as nut
and bolt push pin push type fastener, rivet, weld point and the
like that would be used for such assembly of subassembly 200 as a
module to vehicle 121. The modular piece comprising subassembly 200
may be attached to vehicle 121 by both a fastening system and
bonded by an adhesive. The assembly of the module comprising
subassembly 200 to vehicle 121 includes the positioning of
subassembly 200 above vehicle 121 on an assembly line, lowering
subassembly 200 into position on vehicle 121 and fastening and/or
bonding with adhesive to vehicle 121. Such embodiments may include
interior headliner parts 209 which would come typically through the
opening where the windshield would go and move up towards the
interior roof portion for attachment to the vehicle 121. Interior
headliner 209 may be attached by utilizing J-hooks. Examples of
such headliner trim assemblies may include interior headliner 209.
Interior headliner 209 may include other components as described in
FIG. 9 which may be part of the module that is assembled. Roof
module 200 may have similar roof assemblies which may not include
flexible roof 220. For example, vehicle 121 may have the options of
solid roof, roof with a sunroof, and open air system 100. These
options may be provided to the assembly area by a single supplier
and location pins 232 are common amongst all options. The use of
locator pin 232 or fastener and/or adhesive bonding techniques are
common amongst all options. Headliner components may be common
amongst all options and accessory components such as DVD players,
digital compasses, occupant communication devices and the like may
be included or deleted as part of interior headliner 209, depending
on customer's order.
[0070] Referring to FIG. 15, a cross sectional view of FIG. 13
shows an embodiment of the subassembly 200 comprising track 207
with a roof rack member 211 attached. Subassembly 200 is attached
to body frame 230. Such attachment of subassembly 200 to body frame
230 includes a fastener such as, for example, a screw, a nut and
bolt, a bullet push on fastener, a lock tight fastener, a rivet, a
weld, an adhesive or combinations thereof. Roof headliner 206 runs
below the track and is attached to the roof panel 220. Interior
headliner 209 may be attached to track 207. A side impact airbag
231 may be installed between interior headliner 209 and the body
frame 230. Alternatively, fastening member 232 may be a locator pin
and fastener 234 may not be needed. Rather, subassembly 200 may be
attached to vehicle 121 by using adhesive along the surface
interface between tracks 207 and vehicle frame rail 236.
[0071] Now referring to FIGS. 16-19, a second preferred embodiment
of an open air system 400 is illustrated. In the second preferred
embodiment, open air system 400 is very similar to first preferred
embodiment open air system 100 except that rear header 450 is
attached to and is part of automotive vehicle 121 and rear header
450 is not moveable, but rather rear header is fixed to vehicle
body. Movement of open air system 400 is controlled by controller
180 as described above. FIG. 16 shows open air system with moveable
roof 420 in a closed position and is controlled by controller 180
in a configuration as shown in FIG. 5. As shown in FIG. 17, roof
420 is opened from the front of vehicle 121. The opening as
illustrated in FIG. 17 is controlled by controller 180 in such a
configuration as shown in FIG. 8. Moving to FIG. 18, open air roof
system 400 is shown with roof 420 opened from the rear of vehicle
121. When roof 420 is opened from the rear, the rear header 450
does not move. Vehicle 121 may have a cross car member 452 to add
stability to the frame of vehicle 121. Roof 420 that is opened as
shown in FIG. 18 is controlled with controller 180 in a position as
shown in FIG. 7. FIG. 19 shows open air roof system 400 with roof
420 opened from the front and from the rear. The opening as
illustrated in FIG. 19 is controlled by controller 180 in such a
configuration as shown in FIG. 6.
[0072] Shown in FIG. 20, is a cross sectional view of FIG. 16 along
line 20-20 of front header 436. Although this cross sectional view
is of the front of the roof, the same cross sectional view can be
drawn for the rear header of the roof. Roof 420 engages seal 430
when roof is closed, thus forming a seal deterring wind, moisture,
dirt and other environmental stresses from entering interior of
vehicle when roof is closed. Roof system 400 is attached to vehicle
frame 436 by the fastening of slide rail 444 which is fastened by
fastener 432 though hole 439 of frame 436. Fastener 432 may be a
bullet push on fastener, a lock tight fastener, a screw, a bolt, a
rivet, a weld or any such fastener known to one skilled in the art.
Roof system 400 is attached to vehicle frame 436 by an adhesive
438. In such alternatives, member 432 is a pin that is aligned in
hole 439 for proper alignment of roof system when bonded to vehicle
frame 436 by adhesive 438. Additionally, roof system 400 may be
attached to vehicle frame using both a fastener 432 and adhesive
438. End bow 434 includes fastener 433 which holds outer surface
431 of roof 420 at point 435. In the cavity area 442, a wind
deflector, such as the example as shown in FIGS. 27, 28 and 29, may
be positioned for application on the front header so that wind is
deflected from the interior of the vehicle when the roof 420 is
open. In area 440, an ECU unit such as 216 and/or controller such
as controller 180 may be located for controlling the open air
system 400.
[0073] FIG. 21A shows a cross section of an alternative embodiment
of cross bow 450 which may be fabricated from aluminum, plastics,
carbon fiber, alloys or the like. Cross bow 450 is partially
wrapped by a fabric listing strip 453. Cross bow 450 is topped by
an outer surface 431 of roof 420. The bottom of the cross bow 450
is wrapped in a layer of PVC 454. Roof 420 may be finished on the
interior side with a headliner 452 and such headliner 452 may be
designed to match the interior of the vehicle. Between the top
surface 431 and headliner 452 may include padding 451. Such padding
451 is advantageous to dampen sound as well as retain heat or air
conditioning, thus providing a more comfortable environment for
occupants of the vehicle.
[0074] FIG. 21B shows a cross section of a preferred embodiment of
cross bow 450 which may be fabricated from aluminum, plastic,
carbon fiber, alloy or the like. Headliner material 452 includes
seam 455 that creates pocket 456 around cross bow 450. Pocket 456
attaches cross bow 450 to roof 420. Roof 420 includes outer surface
431 which is designed to withstand the elements and keep the
vehicle dry inside. Roof 420 also includes padding 451. Such
padding 451 is advantageous to dampen sound as well as retain heat
or air conditioning, thus providing a more comfortable environment
for occupants of the vehicle. Headliner 452 may be designed to
match the interior of the vehicle.
[0075] Referring to FIG. 22, illustrated is a cross sectional view
along line 22-22 of vehicle side rail 437 and roof 420 shown in
FIG. 16. Roof system 420 is in operable contact with seal 430 with
assistance from tension cable 469, thus deterring outside elements
such as wind, rain, snow, dirt, and the like from entering interior
vehicle when roof 420 is closed. Roof 420 has an outer surface 431
and padding 451. Various embodiments of lift mechanism comprising
arm 464 and slider 465 are detailed in FIGS. 33-37. Open air system
400 is fastened by the fastening of rail system 444 to side vehicle
rail 437 by a fastener 461. Alternatively, roof system is attached
to vehicle frame using both a fastener 432 and adhesive 438. Open
air roof system 400 may include headliner 452 which engages with
interior trim piece 460 and may be designed to give the interior a
finished and aesthetically pleasing look.
[0076] FIG. 23 is a cross sectional view along line 23-23 of FIG.
16 along a cross bow area along side rail of vehicle. Cross bow 450
is attached to lift mechanism arm 464 and headliner 452 is below
cross bow 450. In some embodiments, cross bow 450 is attached to
roof 420 as described in FIG. 21A. In other embodiments, cross bow
450 is attached to roof 420 as shown in FIG. 21B. In still other
embodiments, cross bow 450 may be attached to roof 420 in such a
way as described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No.
2004/0135404.
[0077] With reference to FIG. 24 which is a cross sectional view of
FIG. 16 along line 24-24, a drive mechanism 790 for moving roof 420
is shown. In this example, drive mechanism 790 is located in rear
of automotive vehicle 121. Drive mechanism 790 couples to cable
housing 491 and includes at least one motor 792. In the case of
roof 420 being able to be opened from the front and the rear
simultaneously, at least two motors 792 are necessary. Drive
control mechanism 790 may include an ECU 493. ECU 493 may include
express open and express close options and may control prevention
of pinching a finger in the closing of the roof. Drive control
mechanism 790 controls cam which runs along drive cable 792 which
is flocked along a drive link 486. Drive cables 492 are operably
connected to sliders or lift mechanism and to motors such that
sliders move based on movement of motor. Motor has a home position
and may reset home position when roof is closed. Alternatively,
subassembly 200 may comprise a movement mechanism for roof panel
420 along track 444. Examples of a movement mechanism may include
but is not limited to generally rigid rods, pulley-type cables,
Bowden cables as well as gears of the motor that may directly
contact a rack-like track, a jack screw, tape drive or hydraulic
mechanism. Preferably, a movement mechanism includes two motors and
four drive cables.
[0078] Referring to FIG. 25, seal 430 may include a drain 475.
Water flows away from open air system 400 as indicated by the
arrow. Seal 430 is a double bulb seal. Alternatively, seal 430 is a
single bulb with an elbow. Seal 430 may include a drain trough and
the drain trough may be between two bulbs of the seal. Seal 430 may
include a trough for edge of roof 420 along tension cable 469.
[0079] Referring to FIG. 26, an alternative embodiment of an end
cap for an end bow assembly 464 includes a cam 465 which runs along
guide track 444. When drive cables pull cam 465, it lifts end cap
464, thus lifting end bow piece away from seal and allows for
movement of roof from a closed position to an open position. In a
preferred embodiment illustrated in FIG. 43, end cap assembly 650
for end bow includes end cap 651 which includes connecting pieces
651 which attaches to an upper end bow member 660 and 653 which
connects to a lower end bow member 661. Upper 660 and lower 661 end
bow members connect to a mirrored image of end cap assembly 650
which is across the vehicle. End cap mechanism 651 also includes a
connection to drive cable connector 655 to a drive cable arm 656, a
pivot point 654 which may include a bias and a locking member 657.
When opening roof, drive pulls end cap assembly 650 at connector
655. This action moves locking mechanism 657 from a depression onto
track, thus raising end cap 651 and its end bow away from seal and
allowing movement of roof into an open position.
[0080] Referring to FIG. 27, an optional wind deflector is shown
which may be included in area 442. Such wind deflector system 479
includes a blade 480 and arm 481, a guide 482, and a bracket 483.
Wind deflector system 479 has a bias to hold blade 480 up and in
the path of the wind created by vehicle. When roof is open, bias
holds blade 480 and as roof closes, roof exerts pressure on arm 481
which is greater than bias, thus pushing blade 480 down to a stored
position as roof closes. In an alternative embodiment, wind
deflector 600 may be stored in area 442. Wind deflector includes
three pieced hinge member that is attached to slide track at 603.
When roof is open, wind deflector 600 is shown up and in the path
of the wind as illustrated in 601. As roof closes, it makes contact
to arm 602, pushing wind deflector 600 forward as shown in 601A and
then into a storage position with the roof closed as shown in 601B.
Wind deflector 600 has two such members, one on each track and in
such embodiments, a fabric type cover may be put across each hinged
member for the deflection of wind. Alternatively, wind deflector
600 may have hinged member 601 that includes parts that are
continuous across the vehicle and attached at the other track in a
mirrored image of wind deflector 600. In such embodiments, the
middle may be solid across the vehicle or it may include
perforations or castles, depending on result from wind tunnel
studies. Wind deflector 600 may be stored in area 442. Wind
deflector may be moved to various heights by sliding the mechanism
forward to increase the angle and height of the wind deflector and
backwards or to the back of the vehicle to decrease the angle of
attack and shorten the wind deflector. The wind deflector may be
stowed in area 442 by moving the slide all the way toward the rear
and the wind deflector folds down and into the area 442. As shown
in FIG. 29, a second alternative embodiment of a wind deflector 620
is shown. In this embodiment, wind deflector 620 comprises a member
623 that is attached to vehicle as well as attached to a moving
member 621 which has a bias 625 at their connection. Such bias 625
allows wind deflector to be open and when roof closes, it exerts
pressure on member 621 that is greater than bias 625, thus closing
wind deflector. Wind deflector 620 also includes cross car
component 622 which mates with mirrored images 623, 621 and 625 on
the opposite side of the vehicle. The components of wind deflector
620 make a frame that is wrapped with a fabric 624. Fabric 624 is
foldable such that it does not impede the closing of member 621
moves as roof closes. Referring to FIGS. 52 and 53, a third
alternate embodiment of the wind deflector is shown. In such
embodiments, wind deflector 630 includes drive link 631, rotor link
632, slave link 633 and driving rotor mount 634. Driving rotor
mount 634 is connected to vehicle as well as connected to drive
link 631 and rotor link 632. In the connection between drive link
and driving rotor mount, a bias 625 holds wind deflector 630 in an
open position as shown in FIG. 53. As the roof closes, it engages
drive link 631 moving with a force greater than bias 625, thus
moving wind deflector 630 forward and into a closed position as
shown in FIG. 52. Wind deflector 630 includes a mirrored image on
the other side of the vehicle. Wind deflector 630 may include a
solid member between slave links 633 and in such embodiments, a
solid member may be made of a light metal such as aluminum or an
alloy, or may be made of a plastic or carbon fiber. The solid
member may be perforated, castled or the like as set forth from
wind tunnel studies. Alternatively, wind deflector 630 is a
mirrored image cross car and has a cross car component similar to
622 in FIG. 29 and has a fabric similar to 624 that runs along
slave drive 633 and drive link 631.
[0081] With reference to FIGS. 30-32, a preferred embodiment of a
corner piece for guide track or rail system is illustrated. Corner
piece 490 interfaces with track 444 and is attached using with
lateral apertures 495 and 496. Alternatively, more lateral
apertures may be used or less lateral apertures may be used. Corner
piece 490 is attached to header component 491 by lateral apertures
498, 499. Alternatively, corner piece 490 may be attached to header
component 491 with more lateral apertures or corner piece 490 may
be attached to header component 491. Corner piece 490 includes four
cable guides 494 and the cable guides have drive cables 492 running
through them. Drive cables 492 control opening and closing of the
roof, as explained above, and the use of corner piece 490 allows
drive cables 492 to come from header component 491 in one plane and
enters track 444 in a stacked parallel configuration.
[0082] FIG. 50 shows an exploded rear perspective view of a
subassembly of a second preferred embodiment of open air system
400. Subassembly includes outer fabric surface 430, padding 451,
cross bows 450, and header 452. Connected to cross bows 450 are
lift mechanisms comprising slider 454 and arm 465. The slider 454
is operably connected to guide track 444 which includes corner
pieces 490 and arm 464 is operably connected to cross bow 450. Lift
mechanism 650 includes a bow end cap assembly 650, which is
connected to an upper cross vehicle member 660 and a lower cross
vehicle member 661 with fasteners 662. Two end cap assemblies 650,
along with upper member 660 and lower member 661 comprise end cross
bow. Also included in subassembly is seal 430 and drive mechanism
790 which includes two motors, four drive cables and ECU. FIG. 51
is a cross sectional view of FIG. 50 showing the assembly of the
upper cross vehicle member 660 and lower cross vehicle member 661
with fastener 662. Upper roof surface 431 and, in an alternate
embodiment, headliner 452 are sandwiched into a J-channel created
by upper cross vehicle member 660 and lower cross vehicle member
661 and held by tightening fastener 662.
[0083] FIGS. 33-37 illustrate various embodiments of lift
mechanisms that may be used with the present teachings to assist in
the opening and closing of the open air roof. Lift assemblies shown
in FIGS. 33-37 are advantageous to allow better lift in opening and
an improved neutral position when the roof is closed. An improved
neutral position seals the roof better to outside elements and air
gusts and helps prevent buffeting and/or chatter in the roof when a
vehicle is driven at higher speeds. Other improvements include the
lift assembly produced using three parts including a spring, which
is fewer parts than the prior art. In addition, lift assemblies are
advantageous by raising the roof above tracks and seal in the lift
position which substantially decreases wear on roof and seals and
improves long term sealing of roof. Another improvement includes
the placement of the connectors to the bows so that the roof has
improved opening capability and less wear on interior headliner
parts and seals. In preferred embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 33-37,
referring to lift assembly 510, sliding piece 512 is designed so
that feet 522 ride in a track and may be connected to a drive
cable. Slide piece 512 is designed so that it is operably slidable
in track, for example, such as 444 in FIG. 32 with minimal wobble
or bending within track. Slide piece 512 comprises a spring 514 and
such a spring may be a leaf spring. Slide piece 512 may have sides
that have equivalent heights as shown in FIG. 34 or may have sides
that are at different heights, as shown in FIG. 35. Slide piece 512
has a hole 521 that goes through each side and holes are set in a
line that is perpendicular to the sides. In addition, slide piece
512 may have recessed areas 525 making assembly easier. Lift arm
515 includes bow attachment apertures 518 and 516. The lift arm
also includes pin 520 which fits into hole 521 during assembly and
for operation of open air roof. Lift arm is designed so that
surface 526 is operable with spring 514 and may include shaping or
a cam to have the best and angles of opening and neutral positions
and such can be controlled by shaping area 526 to work best with
spring 514. Lift arm 515 includes a flag 522 and flag 522 assists
in keeping roof operably taut in a closed position. In an
alternative embodiment, lift arm uses a coil spring 530 which is
attached to lift arm 529 at point 532 and to slide piece 528 at
point 531, as shown in FIG. 37. All other aspects of lift assembly
533 is similar to lift assembly 510. Lift mechanism 533, a flag
such as shown as piece 522 may be included on lift arm 531. In a
second alternative embodiment of lift assembly 510 or 533 may be
employed without a spring or other bias types. In a third
alternative embodiment, lift assembly 510 or 533 includes a stop
for a fully closed or a fully closed position. Examples of a stop
for a fully opened position is shown in FIG. 36. Stop 527 is
illustrating such a design on arm 515 may be used in any
embodiment. Another example of a stop for a fully opened position
is illustrated in FIG. 37 where stop 535 is part of slider unit
528. Various embodiments of a lift mechanism further comprises a
clip 517 as illustrated in FIG. 34. Such clip 517 may be utilized
to hold interior roof headliner.
[0084] In a third preferred embodiment, open air roof system 500 is
shown in FIG. 37. In this embodiment, open air system 500 includes
an angled portion or step 555 in track 544. Such angled portion is
due to a change in elevations of the roof line of vehicle 521. Roof
520 is opened and closed using similar operation to move open air
system 400, as shown in FIGS. 16-19 and discussed above. In this
embodiment, a specially designed lift assembly is needed to seal
roof 520 in the closed position. Such a lift assembly 560 is shown
in FIGS. 39-42 and 49. Lift assembly 560 is designed to seal at
angled position step 555 in the closed position. The shape
curvature and size of 560 depends on angled portion or step 555 and
will vary from vehicle 521 to other vehicles with similar roof
lines comprising different elevations. Roof mechanism 560 includes
a slider piece 568 and a lift arm piece 570. Lift arm piece 570 is
fitted into a hole 573 and slider piece 568 and secured with a pin
572. In a preferred embodiment, as shown above, this pin 572 is
fabricated as part of lift arm 570. In an alternative embodiment, a
metal pin may be used to fasten slider mechanism and lift arm at
the pivot point. In a preferred embodiment, lift arm 570 comprises
curved flags 564, 565 to operably seal roof 520 when it is closed
to roof line at step 555. Lift arm 570 includes at least two cross
bow connections with one cross bow connector 576 being fixed in the
front on the slider 568 and at least one cross bow connector 574,
572 on arms 570, as illustrated in FIGS. 39, 40, 41 and 49. As
shown in FIGS. 39, 40 and 41, lift assembly 560 includes a fixed
bow connector 576 and two floating bows 574, 572. Tension cable 563
is connected to flags 565, 564 to assist in sealing roof 520 to
seals 463 when roof is in closed position. A spring may be included
in cable 563 on each side of the lift assembly 560 to help lift
assembly slides in track 444 using sliders 582. Lift assembly 560
may or may not include a spring. For example, a leaf spring or a
coil spring may be employed with lift assembly 560 similarly to
embodiments discussed in detail above. In a second preferred
embodiment referring to FIG. 49, lift mechanism described in FIGS.
38, 39, 40 and 41 is similar to lift mechanism 590 but has a
continuous flag 591 and tension cable 563 is attached to either
side of flag 591. In such embodiments, a single flag may be
necessary due to the stress and/or tension created on lift arm
assembly 570 when in a closed position on step 555.
[0085] In some embodiments, a vehicle has such an open roof system
as described herein that may need to be reinforced to meet U.S.
government side impact crash requirements. In some embodiments,
reinforcement may include a cross beam as shown in FIGS. 16-19 and
described by the present teachings. In other embodiments,
reinforcement may include tying together an A-pillar to a B-pillar
or a B-pillar to a C-pillar etc., for example, as shown in U.S.
Pat. No. 6,817,654. In some embodiments, open air roof system may
include a moveable screen or roof such that the screen may be
employed to keep an open air feeling but yet protect from flying
insects. Such an embodiment employing a screen may be useful for
when the roof is open for camping and/or tent configurations on an
SUV. In such an embodiment, employing a screen would be useful for
such activities as camping out or sleeping outdoors while in the
comfort and security of a vehicle. The screen also may be useful
for driving in off road activities to prevent debris from flying in
and injuring the driver and/or passengers. In some embodiments, a
screen may be useful for diffusing air when the roof is open so
that when the vehicle is driven at higher speeds, driver and
passengers can remain comfortable from high wind forces due to the
diffusion through the screen.
[0086] While various embodiments of an automotive vehicle open air
system has been disclosed herein, it should be appreciated that
other variations will still fall within the scope of the present
invention. For example, generally rigid rods or pulley-type cables
can be employed in place of Bowden cables. Gears of the motor may
directly contact a rack-like track, or a jack screw, tape drive or
hydraulic mechanism can also be provided for any of the moving
components. Additionally, the number and arrangement of linkages,
cams, brackets, switches and electric motors can be varied as long
as the functions of the present invention are achieved.
[0087] FIGS. 44 and 45 show a rear window 703 that is part of
automotive vehicle 700. The window 703 is removable from the
vehicle 700 and is located between a C-pillar 702 and a D-pillar
701. The opening 705 of the window 703 on vehicle 700 is shown and
has a seal 706 to seal the window from the outside elements. The
window 703 has hinges 707 and a fastener 708. The window may be
removed or may be vented. The window assembly 703 is pivotally
mounted within a frame 712 which includes a seal 706. The frame 712
has apertures 713 in which a hinged feature 707 is installed. FIGS.
46, 47 and 48 show the latch mechanism which is in the form of a
two piece toggle linkage comprising a first and second link. The
first ink 752 may be grasped and pivoted in an upward direction to
raise the rear edge of the window assembly 703 upward from the
vehicle body structure 710 of the vehicle to the position shown in
FIG. 46. The latch mechanism 750 is constructed with two stable
states of an over-center condition. The first stable state occurs
when the pivot pin 778 connecting one end of the first and second
links 752, 754 together has been pivoted rearward of the aligned
hinged pins 759, 781 at the other ends of the first and second
links 752, 754, respectively, as illustrated in FIG. 46. In this
position, the latch mechanism 750 is maintained in a stable
position which supports the window in a partially opened venting
position.
[0088] When it is desired to move the window to the completely
closed position, illustrated in FIG. 47, the first link 752 is
grasped and pulled forward until the hinge pin 778 passes through
the aligned hinge pins 759, 781, thereby collapsing the latch
mechanism 750 and lowering the window to the closed position. Upon
reaching the fully closed position, the latch mechanism 750 reaches
its second stable state in which the hinge pin 778 connecting the
first and second links 752, 754 passes through the aligned hinge
pins 759, 781 to firmly hold the latch mechanism 750 in position
and engage the window assembly 728 with the seal strip 726
supported on the top of the outer frame member 722 of the frame
assembly 718. Latch mechanism 750 may be removed from frame
assembly 718 by having latch mechanism 750 in an open position as
illustrated in FIG. 46 then depressing button 786 and removing
tongue 784 from frame assembly 718. Once latch mechanism 750 has
been removed, window 703 may be removed from vehicle 700.
[0089] The examples and other embodiments described herein are
exemplary and are not intended to be limiting in describing the
full scope of apparatus, systems, compositions, materials, and
methods of this invention. Equivalent changes, modifications,
variations in specific embodiments, apparatus, systems,
compositions, materials and methods may be made within the scope of
the present invention with substantially similar results. Such
changes, modifications or variations are not to be regarded as a
departure from the spirit and scope of the invention. All patents
cited herein, as well as all publications discussed herein, are
incorporated in their entirety herein by reference.
* * * * *